Halifax launches AI pilot program with goal of detecting wildfires

The Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) has launched a new pilot program with the goal of detecting wildfires early.

The program will use cameras and artificial intelligence (AI) software in three areas of the municipality.

A news release from the HRM says specialized cameras have been put on provincial communications towers in Hammonds Plains, Musquodoboit Harbour and Middle Sackville.

The cameras run 24 hours a day, seven days a week and have a 360-degree view.

The AI software looks for signs of smoke and if any is detected an alert will be sent to Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency for crews to assess.

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A wildfire last spring in suburbs of northwest Halifax burned 969 hectares, destroyed 151 homes and forced more than 16,000 residents to flee the area.

City councillor Kathryn Morse believes more needs to be done to avoid further tragedies.

"Look at options for increasing what we do around fire prevention and specifically wildfire prevention," she said. "I think there's more we could do and should do to prevent wildfires."

Morse says she plans to put in a request to have the city create a report on what’s needed to prevent further fires, adding conditions in Nova Scotia are drier than they were last year.

"Re-evaluate the types of burning that we do, and perhaps the best way to avoid a repeat of the disaster we had last year is to have a more extensive ban on open fires," said Morse.

"I think it will take a few months to get a report back and it will take some time to implement."

The municipality is also sharing tips for residents to keep in mind during the current wildfire season, which began March 15:

• stay informed about weather conditions and fire restrictions
• plan an evacuation route
• have an emergency kit
• learn about the FireSmart program

For more Nova Scotia news visit our dedicated provincial page.